The Base:
The recipe for barley soup is very simple. Barley is an ideal base for soups as it is bulky, tasteless and cheap. The stock, garlic and barley should be heated together and seasoning added to taste. If it starts to become a little thick, add more stock. If it looks a little thin, add more barley. Simmer gently until ingredients are tender. Add vegetables approximately 30 minutes before cooking is finished.

Filling Out:
The finished result should allow plenty of scope for adding vegetables. Add 16 oz finely chopped nettles and 8 oz diced potatoes to make a nettle soup. Chopped herb celery and mushrooms also make a good addition. Coriander and oregano are two suitable herbs for seasoning, but it really is up to you! Have fun creating your own barley soup recipes.